Debbie White was a young graduate of Bishop State when she started her career as a Registered Nurse at Mobile Infirmary. After working the orthopaedic floor there for 13 years, Debbie knew change was coming but was unsure of the impact it would make on her coworkers and so many patients. She confided in her friend and Sunday school teacher, praying together for several weeks about the path Debbie should take for her and her family. Debbie says, “If you don’t believe that prayer and God works, I can tell you so many times when I have found answers by just simply asking and listening. I was even looking for a new job when I got a call from a former coworker, Hazel, who said she was retiring and asked me if I was looking for a change. She worked for Dr. McGinley and he would now need a new nurse.”
Debbie was interested in the position so she shadowed Hazel in the clinic, where the first patient she saw was someone she also knew. This patient was like an adopted mother to Dr. McGinley and she informed him what a great addition Debbie would be to his team. Debbie says it was like seeing God’s work in front of her eyes. A one-on-one conversation with Dr. McGinley sealed the deal – they discussed the job and expectations, but Dr. McGinley was clear about the priorities: “God. Family. Work.” This was further emphasized by Dr. McGinley’s goal to “help people every day, at least one person a day.” Debbie knew she was being guided to the right place!
Debbie says the most impactful thing from her 23 years with Dr. McGinley and The Orthopaedic Group, P.C. are the friendships with the patients and the co-workers who have become family. She also spoke about how important the benefits were to her as she raised her young family.
After 23 years, Debbie has many stories to share, but a few stand out above the others. One of the funniest stories also showed her the impact Dr. McGinley has on his patients and the community. Debbie walked into the clinic one morning and saw Dr. McGinley talking to a lady with nothing but a hospital gown on. Dr. McGinley said politely, and without hesitation, “Debbie, this is Denise and she needs a ride home.” Debbie learned Denise was a patient who left against medical advice from Springhill Hospital. Dr. McGinley saw her walking and was determined to help get her to her destination in Citronelle. Debbie recruited the assistance of coworker Jennifer Newberry. Jennifer went to the Dollar General to get the lady a complete outfit while Debbie ensured she had breakfast while she also got the morning clinic started. Debbie was taking Denise to Citronelle in her car when Denise opened a box and started rolling a cigarette. Unsure of the situation, Debbie politely told Denise she could not smoke in her car. Debbie looks back on this story and laughs because she said things like this were the norm with Dr. McGinley. She was always impressed with his ability to use his faith and trust in God in his everyday actions and life.
There are many events and life lessons Debbie has experienced over her 23 years with us. She shared the experience of going to Little Sisters of the Poor every two months for at least 20 years, and how Dr. McGinley’s love for this ministry shows in how he helps people every day. She also shared about the free services and surgeries Dr. McGinley performed, and what a joy it was to coordinate with the hospital, anesthesia, and other vendors to donate services for those patients.
Debbie is moving to Tennessee to be closer to her grandchildren and family, but she leaves us all with a warm heart and kind words. “I can’t believe it’s time to clock out from The Orthopaedic Group for the last time! My career here was an answer to prayer, and I have loved where God has placed me! I am so very thankful for so many lifelong friends I have made. You have shared joy and sadness with me. Dr. McGinley has been a wonderful mentor and friend. He has taught me to have a servant’s heart in all things. You will forever be in my heart!
Debbie also shared these words that mean so much to her:
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11
THE BLESSING OF A FRIEND
The Lord brought us together,
There’s a bond that we now share,
It’s a blessing we call friendship,
And it means we truly care.
You’ve been there during times of need
You’ve shared my dreams and plans.
It’s nice to know you are there,
If I ever need a hand.
I always enjoy the time we spend,
Whenever we’re together.
But more than that, you are my friend
And in my heart forever.
Please join us in wishing Debbie luck in Tennessee; you will be missed!
For more than 40 years, patients throughout the Gulf Coast have chosen our orthopaedic doctors at The Orthopaedic Group, P.C., for specialized care in the spine, shoulder, elbow, hand and wrist, hip, and knee, and foot and ankle.
Our fellowship-trained doctors have extensive education and experience in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating all orthopaedic injuries and conditions.
Experienced, Expert care for over 40 years.
